MINNEAPOLIS, July 15, 2008—American Medical Association President Nancy H. Nielsen, M.D., responded to the news of President Bush's veto of H.R. 6331, the Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act of 2008.

“Today the AMA calls on all members of Congress to put patients first by voting to override President Bush’s veto of H.R. 6331, which would protect access to health care for millions of Americans and avoid a Medicare meltdown," Nielsen said.

“Along with the AMA, many patient, physician, and military organizations are asking Congress to pass this bipartisan bill for the health of America. The only group opposing the legislation is a health insurance lobby eager to protect health plan subsidies and profits."

Nielsen urged all members of Congress to stand alongside seniors, the disabled and military families — and override the President's veto.

Votes in the House and Senate may occur as soon as Tuersday afternoon.